pier

noun

ˈpir 

1

: an intermediate support for the adjacent ends of two bridge spans

2

: a structure (such as a breakwater) extending into navigable water for use as a landing place or promenade or to protect or form a harbor

3

: a vertical structural support: such as

a

: the wall between two openings

b

: pillar, pilaster

c

: a vertical member that supports the end of an arch or lintel

d

: an auxiliary mass of masonry used to stiffen a wall

4

: a structural mount (as for a telescope) usually of stonework, concrete, or steel

Synonyms of pier

• dock
• wharf
• quay

Examples of pier in a Sentence

tied the boat up at the pier

Recent Examples on the Web

Longshore currents can sweep swimmers and surfers into rip currents, piers, jetties, and other hazardous areas. — Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 14 July 2026

Its transformation of the Hôtel Martinez pier in Cannes and its expansion to GiGi Saint-Tropez signal that wellbeing now carries the same cultural currency as heritage fashion. — Kate Hardcastle, Forbes.com, 8 July 2026

Several people were injured by shrapnel from explosions at the commercial pier in the town of Sirik, which is in the Strait of Hormuz, and were transferred to a hospital in the nearby city of Minab, according to the semiofficial Tasnim news agency. — Garrett Haake, NBC news, 7 July 2026

In Emerald Isle, worries wash out with the tides and hospitality always includes making room for one more fishing pole on the pier. — Mary Catherine McAnnally Scott, Southern Living, 7 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English per, from Old English, from Medieval Latin pera

First Known Use

12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing pier

• pier glass
• pier table

Rhymes for pier

• beer
• bier
• cheer
• clear
• dear
• deer
• drear
• ear
• fear
• fier
• gear
• hear

Kids Definition

pier

noun

ˈpi(ə)r 

1

: a support for a bridge

2

: a structure built out into the water for use as a landing place or walk or to protect or form a harbor

3

: an upright supporting part (as a pillar or buttress) of a building or structure